World Oceans Day – 8 June 2009

In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly decided that, as from 2009, 8 June would be designated as “World Oceans Day”. The oceans are essential to food security and the health and survival of all life, they power our climate and are a critical part of the biosphere. Over-fishing is depleting the oceans; fishing practices cause untold damage to both wildlife and the sea itself; and industrial-scale fish-farming (aquaculture) is polluting our rivers and streams. Whether it’s farmed or caught in the wild, eating fish causes significant damage to wildlife and the oceans. Vegetarians don’t eat fish so going veggie will help preserve important eco systems.

In 2006, the total world fisheries produced 143.6 million tonnes of fish, 92 million tonnes from capture and 51.7 million tones from aquaculture. 110.4 million tonnes (77%) was consumed by humans (47% from aquaculture) with the remainder going to non-food uses such as livestock and fishmeal for fish-farming.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), by the year 2030 an additional 37 million tonnes of fish per year will be needed to maintain current levels of fish consumption, across a world population increased by two billion more people.

A recent four year study revealed that the global trend is a serious concern and projects the collapse (90% depletion) of all species of wild seafood that are currently being fished by the year 2050.
300,000 cetaceans (whales, dolphins, porpoises) are killed every year as ‘by-catch’ of the fishing industries.

Find out more about the environmental arguments for going vegetarian by ordering a free copy of 'Why it's Green to Go Vegetarian' on 0161 925 2000, www.vegsoc.org/environment.

Notes for editors

· For press information please contact Su on 0161 925 2012 or su@vegsoc.org, or out of office hours call mobiles 07973 108 165/7, visit www.vegsoc.org/press

· References available on request